RESTRICTED  WORLD TRADE  
ORGANIZATION  G/RO/M/51 
19 November 2008 
 (08-5644) 
Committee on Rules of Origin  
  
 
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF 9 OCTOBER 2008 
 
Chairperson:  Ms. Vera Thorstensen
 
 Subjects Discussed
 
 
I. ENDORSEMENT OF SUGGESTIONS BY THE DELEGATIONS FOR 
TECHNICAL FINE TUNING OF DRAFT CONSOLIDATED TEXT OF RULES OF ORIGIN (G/RO/W/120) ......................................................................................1
 
II. TECHNICAL ISSUES IN THE H ARMONIZATION WORK PROGRAMME 
(G/RO/W/111/REV.2, G/RO/W/111/REV.2/CORR.1 AND 2;  
JOB(07)/84/REV.1;   G/RO/W/121)  – REPORTING OF THE INFORMAL 
CONSULTATIONS.................................................................................................................. 2 
III. TRANSITIONAL REVIEW UNDER PARAGRAPH 18 OF THE PROTOCOL 
OF ACCESSION OF THE PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF CHINA (WT/L/432;  WT/ACC/CHN/49, PARAS. 97-102) .....................................................................................21
 
IV. THAILAND – IMPLEMENTATION  BY ARGENTINA OF ITS 
COMMITMENT TO THE AGREEMENT ON RULES OF ORIGIN..............................21  
V. NOTIFICATIONS UNDER ARTICLE 5 AND PARAGRAPH 4 OF ANNEX II OF THE AGREEMENT ON RULES OF ORIGIN (G/RO/N/56-59) ................................21
 
VI. ANNUAL REVIEW OF THE IMPLEMENTATION AND OPERATION OF 
THE AGREEMENT ON RULES OF  ORIGIN (G/RO/W/122).........................................22  
VII. ANNUAL REPORT (2008) TO THE COUNCIL FOR TRADE IN GOODS 
(G/RO/W/123) ................................................................................................................... ......22  
VIII.  DATES OF THE NEXT MEETING.....................................................................................22  
 
 
I. ENDORSEMENT OF SUGGESTIONS BY THE DELEGATIONS FOR TECHNICAL 
FINE TUNING OF DRAFT CONSOLID ATED TEXT OF RULES OF ORIGIN 
(G/RO/W/120) 
1.1 The Chairperson recalled that at the last m eeting of the Committee on Rules of Origin that 
several issues were identified to be forwarded fo r endorsement to the formal meeting of the CRO by 
the delegations who had participated in the info rmal consultation from 22-23 April 2008.  These 
issues had been circulated in document G/RO/W/120.    1.2 The CRO agreed
 to drop the square brackets in:   
 
- the Note of Chapter 16.  The Note reads as follows:  "change to this Chapter from 
Chapter 2 or 3 merely by addition of seas oning or preservatives (including sugar) are 
not considered origin conferring.". G/RO/M/51 
Page 2  
 
  - "Residual Rule for Subheadings 26523.21-2523.90". 
- the primary rules of headings 03.02 and 03.03. 
- the primary rules of headings 69.08. 
- the primary rules of headings 70.05. 
II. TECHNICAL ISSUES IN THE HARMONIZATION WORK PROGRAMME 
(G/RO/W/111/REV.2, G/RO/W/111/REV.2/CORR.1 AND 2;  JOB(07)/84/REV.1;   
G/RO/W/121) – REPORTING OF THE INFORMAL CONSULTATIONS 
2.1 Based on the informal consultations the Chai rperson had held with Members concerned, the 
Chairperson
 stated as follows: 
 
A. OVERALL ARCHITECTURE  
1. General Rule 4  
 
It was noted that where the value added rule is applied for determining the origin of the 
goods, the costs of packing and packaging materials and containers are normally included in the ex-
works price. 
 
2. General Rule 6  
 
(a) One delegation noted that the minimal opera tions could be carried out after a good 
was wholly obtained (like wrapping apples) and that the CRO and, the TCRO in the 
past, had tried not to enumerate a list of minimal operations or processes due to the 
fact that the list with its "general a nd conceptual" nature might jeopardize the 
application of carefully worded product-specific rules.  For instance, the drying of fish is recognized in the CRO Chair's pr oposal as a substantial transformation under 
the Matrix rule which is still in square brackets, but it may be considered to be 
"ensuring preservation of goods in good co ndition for the purposes of storage".  
Therefore, the delegation suggested that the expression "whether a good has been 
wholly obtained in one country" should re main with brackets, until we all have a 
crystal clear idea of the scope of this provision. 
 (b) Some delegations stated that the provis ion of minimal operations and processes 
should be applied to both a ppendices 1 and 2.  One example of a minimal operation 
for facilitating transport would be the o iling of steel products to prevent it from 
rusting.  
 (c) One delegation stated that the current Ge neral Rule 6 appeared too general to 
translate into his national language.  He pr eferred texts of Appendix 2, Rule 2(c). 
 
(d) One delegation stated that, according to cu rrent consolidated text, minimal operation 
or process should apply to Appendix I and II bot h.  In his view, Rule 2(i) of Appendix 
II (disassembly) is a kind of operation conducted for facilitating shipment or 
transportation as mentioned in item (ii) of Ge neral Rule 6, and the wording of  Rule 2 
is more precise. Rule 2(ii) of Appendix 2 is  also similar with General Rule 6(iii).   
  G/RO/M/51 
 Page 3 
 
 
   He also stated that it was known that the CRO had tried not to enumerate what kind 
of operations or processes would be consid ered minimal. However current General 
Rule 6 was too general to implement. 
  For example, with regard to item (ii), there would be a lot of room for discretion in 
determining which operation or process undert aken was for facilitating shipment or 
transportation?  A question could be raised on whether dehydration should be 
regarded as an operation conducted for f acilitating shipment or transportation. 
  He further stated that they had difficulti es to translate General Rule 6 into their 
official language because they were not sure whether the subject matters therein 
should be specific “purposes” or certain “operations or process.”  
  According to the second line of the chap eau, the subject matter should be “the 
purposes listed below,” and thus “all” ope rations or process” conducted for those 
purposes should be regarded minimal. But in  addition to specific purposes listed in (i) 
and (iii), (“transport or storage” and “sale” respectively), certain (not all) operations 
or process like “ensuring preservation of goods in good condition” and “packaging or presenting goods” are also included. 
 
3. Appendix 1 – Definition 2
 
 
(a) In order to clarify what is meant by “outside a country”, i.e. beyond an EEZ or area of 
fisheries jurisdiction in the case of defin ition 2(a) and beyond areas of the continental 
shelf over which a country exercises jurisdiction in the case of definition 2(c), one delegation proposed the following amendments: 
 
 Definition 2(a): “Products of sea-fishi ng and other products taken from the sea 
outside an area over which a country exerci ses jurisdiction are considered to be 
wholly obtained in the country whose flag th e vessel that carries out those operations 
is entitled to fly.” 
 
 Definition 2(c): “Products taken from the sea bed or subsoil beneath the sea bed 
outside an area over which a country exerci ses jurisdiction, are considered to be 
wholly obtained in the country that has the rights to exploit that sea bed or subsoil in accordance with the provisions of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.” 
 
(b) One delegation questioned whether Definiti on 2(b) was not included in the proposal 
mentioned in paragraph (a) above. 
 (c) Some delegations supported the current text contained in G/RO/W/111/Rev.2. 
 
4. Appendix 2 – Rules 1
 
 
 Scope of Application  
   In order to achieve harmonised rules, one delegation preferred to have one set of rules 
based on a change in tariff classification (CTC),  i.e. the rules contained in column 3, for 
conferring of origin on goods in Chapters 84 to 90 and in Chapter 92. 
   He supported CTC rules because they are an objective and consistent measure of 
substantial transformation.  His delegation only supported value added rules in very few 
circumstances, e.g. embroidery, where other rules were impractical. Value-add rules can G/RO/M/51 
Page 4  
 
  result in varied outcomes.  They rely on calcu lations based on cost data, are less transparent 
and are affected by exchange rate fluctuati ons.  This means that goods may originate in a 
country sometimes but not at others, despite id entical materials and processes being used.  
Additionally, under value added rules outcom es depend greatly on a country’s level of 
economic development.  Higher wage rates a nd other supply costs in developed countries 
make it easier for them to meet value added rules.  Finally, value added rules discourage 
productivity improvements, as reductions in ove rheads and wages per unit could reduce the 
proportion of value add to below the nominated threshold. 
 
5. Appendix 2 – Rules 2-6
 
 
(a) At Chair's request, a delegation has provided a new text of rules of Appendix 2  as 
follows:  
 
APPENDIX  2 – PRODUCT SPECIFIC RULES OF ORIGIN 
 
 This Appendix sets forth rules for determining the country of origin of a good when the 
origin of the good is not determined under Appendix 1. 
 
 Rule 1:  Determination of Origin 
  The country of origin shall be determined  in accordance with the following provisions, 
applied in sequence: 
  Primary Rules 
 
 
 The country of origin of a good is the last count ry in which a primary rule prescribed for the 
good in this annex has been satisfied by producti on.  [n.b.: there is no current definition or 
identification of either primary or residual rules].   Residual Rules
 
 
 When no primary rule prescribed for a good has been satisfied: 
 
(a) The country of origin of a good shall be dete rmined pursuant to the applicable residual rule 
 specified at the chapter level; 
 (b) When a good is produced by further processing of:  
 (i) a single material;  or 
 (ii) materials that all have their origin in a single country;   the country of origin of the good shall be the co untry of origin of such material or materials, 
 as the case may be; 
 
(c) When the good is produced from materials of more than one country, the country of origin of 
the good shall be the country in which the major portion of those materials originated, as 
determined on the basis of value, unless specified otherwise in a certain Chapter, of the good. 
 Rule 2:  Rules of application and interpretation 
 
[Note that with the deletions suggested, all the remain ing provisions relate to tariff shift rules only.  A 
more appropriate placement might be within the ru les annex.  Also, these concepts are duplicated in 
several instances, notably in the Chapter Rules for 84-90].  G/RO/M/51 
 Page 5 
 
 
   
(a) The rules provided in this Appendix are to be applied to goods based upon their classification 
in the HS and any additional subdivisions created  thereunder, as referred to in General Rule 1 
of this Annex. 
 (b) Reference to the tariff classification change  in primary rules shall apply only to non-
originating materials.  
 
(c) When the primary rules require a change in classification, the following changes in 
classification shall not be considered in determining the origin of the good: 
  (i) changes which result from disassembly; 
 (ii) changes which result from packaging, repackaging, or putting up for retail sale; 
 (iii) changes which result solely from applica tion of General Rule of Interpretation 2(a) 
  of the HS with respect to collections of parts that are presented as unassembled or 
  disassembled articles. 
 
 However, such changes shall not preclude confe rring origin on a good if origin is conferred 
as a result of other operations.  
 Rule 3:  Intermediate materials 
  Materials which have acquired originating status in a country are considered to be originating 
materials of that country for the purpose of dete rmining the origin of a good incorporating such 
materials, or of a good made from such materials by further working or processing in that country. 
 
 Rule 4:  Interchangeable goods and materials 
  The country of origin of commingled materials or goods that are interchangeable may be 
allocated on the basis of an inventory management  method recognized in the country in which the 
materials or goods were commingled.  
 Rule 5:  De Minimis 
 
 For purposes of the application of primary rules based on tariff classification change, non-originating materials that do not satisfy the primary rule shall, unless otherwise specified, be disregarded, provided that the totality of such ma terials does not exceed 10% of the value of the good. 
 
 
(b) One delegation stated that under the new text, the primary rules would be used as 
much as possible, whereas under the curre nt text the primary rules would be 
abandoned immediately when they were not met under Rule 3(b).  She took a steel 
door as an example to explain the new text as follows:  "Country A produced a steel door (heading 7308.30) and exported it to Count ry B, where the door was painted and 
fished (heading 7308.30).  The primary rule of subheading 7308.30 is CTH".  In this case, Rule 1 of the new text will determine Country A as the country of origin of the 
good.  But under the current text, Rule 3(b) should be first applied and then origin is 
determined by Rule 3(c). 
 (c) Some delegations stated that the new text  appeared simpler and clearer but the origin 
outcome would be the same under any of two texts and that the current text which G/RO/M/51 
Page 6  
 
  was a result of many years' collective efforts by many delegations clearly showed the 
sequential steps to be taken in order to determine origin. 
 
(d) One delegation stated the current Rule 2(e)  was reflected in Rule 1(b)(ii) of the new 
text, but this rule should be a primary rule  not a residual rule.  He took rails as an 
example:  "Country A imported rails (headi ng 73.02) and the rails were melted and 
changed into steel ingots (heading 72.06) and then changed into brand-new rails 
(heading 73.02) in Country A".  Although CTH rule is not met in Country A, origin should be conferred upon Country A by the current Rule 2(e) as a primary rule. 
 
(e) Some delegations stated that tracing back seemed impossible for some products. 
 
(f) One delegation stated that it was difficult for them to discuss of the harmonized rules 
of origin without knowing the implications of the harmonized rules of origin for other 
WTO Agreements. 
 
(g) The Secretariat was requested to prepare some simple and realistic examples to test 
how the two approaches would work and circulate them for discussion before the next meeting of the CRO. 
 
6. Appendix 2: Residual Rules (f)
 
 
It was noted that Residual Rules (f) of Rule 3 should read as follows: "When the good is 
produced from materials (whether or not originating) of more than one country, the country of origin 
of the good shall be the country in which the major portion of those materials originated, as 
determined on the basis of weight of the goods, unless specified otherwise in a certain Chapter". 
 
7. Definitions in Chapter Notes  
 
It was noted that definitions should be disti nguished from primary rules in all chapters. 
 
B. PRODUCT -SPECIFIC RULES OF ORIGIN  
 
 Chapter 1  
 
(a) It was noted that the proposed primary rules of subheading 0102.90, 0103.10-92 and 
heading 01.05 in document G/RO/W/111/Rev. 2, which are still in square brackets, 
should read as follows: 
 
0102.90 - Other  [The origin of the bov ine animals of a weight 
of 300 kg. or more shall be the country where 
the animal was fattened for at least 8 months to come from a weight of less than 300 kg. to a weight of 300 kg. or more; otherwise the origin shall be the country where the animal 
was born.] 
01.03 Live swine As specified for subheadings 
0103.10 - Pure-bred breeding animals  [The origin shall be the country where the 
animal was born.] 
 - Other:   
0103.91 --  Weighing less than 50 kg.  [The origin shall be the country where the 
animal was born.]  G/RO/M/51 
 Page 7 
 
 
  0103.92 --  Weighing 50 kg. or more  [The origin shall be the country where the 
animal was fattened for at least 4 months to come from a weight of less than 50 kg. to a weight of 50 kg. or more; otherwise the country where the animal was born.] 
01.05 Live poultry, that is to say, fowls 
of the species Gallus domesticus , 
ducks, geese, turkeys and guinea 
fowls [The origin of the goods of this heading of a 
weight of 185g. or more shall be the country 
where the animal was fattened for at least 2 
months to come from a weight of less than 185g. to a weight of 185g.  or more;  otherwise 
the country where the animal was born.] 
 
(b) 0101.19, 0102.90, 0103.92, 01.04, 01.05 and ex01.06(a):  one delegation did not 
consider the fattening of animals to be a s ubstantial transformation.  Furthermore, the 
criteria for substantial transformation shoul d not vary according to the weight or 
breed of an animal.  Origin should be determined solely by the country where the animal was born.  They proposed “The origin shall be country where the animal was born”. 
 
 Chapter 2
 
 
(a) One delegation stated that they support the Chair's proposal only if the preamble 
concerning fool labelling should be included in the consolidated text. 
 
(b) ex02.09(a) and ex02.10(a):  one delegation did not consider the drying of meat to 
represent a substantial transformation and proposed “CC”. 
 
 (c) ex02.10(b) and ex02.10(c):  one delegation proposed “CC”. 
 
 Chapter 3  
 
(a) It was suggested that as concerns split heading ex03.05(a), splits should be further 
made for dried fish and heavy salted fish. 
 
(b) ex03.04(b):  one delegatio n  confirmed their origin-conferring position (CTH) on 
obtaining fish meat.  
 
  ex03.05(a) and ex03.05(b):  one delegation did not consider the process of drying, 
salting or smoking of fish to be a substan tial transformation and proposed “The origin 
shall be the country where the fish of this  split heading have been captured; or if 
farmed, the country where the fish has b een raised from egg or fry (including 
fingerling)”.  
 
(c) ex03.05 (d):  it was noted that “CTHS except from split heading ex0305(b)” should be 
replaced by “CTHS except from split headi ng ex0305(c)”, in accordance with the 
chair’s final package (JOB (06)/86/Rev.2). 
 Chapter 3-24
 
 
The representative of Morocco stated that the square brackets in "Chapter residual rule 
applicable to mixtures" should be dropped. 
 G/RO/M/51 
Page 8  
 
   Chapter 4
 
 
(a) 04.02:  one delegation did not support th is ROO as it allows for further processing 
without conferring origin and proposed “CTH”. 
 
 Ex04.06(b): this ROO would confer origin  through grating cheese.  One delegation 
did not consider the process of grating to be a substantial transformation and proposed 
removing the split for heading 04.06 and applying “CTH”. 
 (b) Ex04.08(a) (dried eggs):  one delega tion confirmed their non-origin conferring 
position. 
 
 Chapter 7
 
 
(a) As concerns split heading ex 07.12( b) (freeze-dried vegetables and fruits), one 
delegation changed their position in order to join the Chair's proposal.  Some 
delegations stated that by defreezing the freezed good can be easily returned to the 
original state, and that the Chair's proposal should be changed. 
 (b) ex07.12(b):  one delegation did not consider ed the drying of vegetables to be origin 
conferring. Proposed “CC”. 
 
  07.14:  one delegation proposed “The origin shall be the country where the goods of 
this heading grew”. 
 (c) 07.12 (b):  Firstly, freeze-dry process is th e restorative and revers ible technology with 
which vegetables keep their nutrient, fla vour and taste.  There is no difference 
between freeze-dried vegetables and fresh or dried vegetables, which are wholly 
obtained goods, in shape and quality.  Secondly, import of such freeze-dried 
vegetables would have a negative impact on the reputation of domestic fresh 
vegetables.  For example, imported vegeta bles could be processed and distributed as 
freeze-dried vegetables made in the country.  It could lessen the domestic vegetable’s 
value.  Thirdly, if the Chair’s proposal  is applied to the case where a vegetable, 
produced in country A, is exported and freeze- dried in country B, the origin of the 
vegetable is conferred to country B.  Howe ver, if this freeze-dried vegetable is re-
exported and returned to the original state in  country C, the origin of the vegetable is 
conferred to country A.  Therefore, they still support WO. 
 
 Chapter 9
 
 
(a) As concerns split heading ex 0901.22( b) (roasted decaffeinated coffee), one 
delegation suggested a rule "CTSH, excep t from subheading 0901.21".  The Chair 
requested the delegation to check whether decaffeination is feasible from already 
roasted coffee. 
 (b) ex09.10(a):  one delegation proposed “The or igin shall be the country where the plant 
grew”.  
 
 Heading 12.12
 
 
It was noted that the brackets of heading 12.12 should be dropped. 
  G/RO/M/51 
 Page 9 
 
 
  Chapter 15  
 
(a) It was noted that Chapter Note 1 should read as follows: "Ref ining (chemically or 
physically) is considered to have occurred  only if all the following operations have 
been carried out on crude oils in a single country...". 
 
(b) One delegation stated that the definition of this chapter should be separated from the 
primary rule in order to accommodate different  situations of the product specific rules 
for the headings and subheadings of Chapter 15. 
 
(c) One delegation proposed CTH for heading 15.11. 
 (d) The representative of the Dominican Republic stated that refining of oils should be 
origin-conferring in all produc ts classified in Chapter 15. 
 
(e) 15.01 and 15.02:  a CTH rule would c onfer origin by merely removing fat from a 
meat cut.  One delegation did not cons ider this to represent a substantial 
transformation and proposed “CC, except from Chapter 2”. 
  15.03 – 15.14:  one delegation proposed “CC”.   
 15.15:  one delegation proposed removing the split from 15.15 and applying “CTH”. 
  ex1517.90(a):  one delegation proposed “CC”.   15.18:  one delegation did not consider the process of boiling or dehydrating to 
represent a substantial transformation a nd proposed subheading rules as follows: 
 
15.18 Animal or vegetable fats, etc. As specified for split headings 
15.18(a) Boiled and dehydrated CC 
15.18(b) Other CTH, or by change in chemical reaction 
 
 15.21:  one delegation proposed removing the split from this heading and applying a 
“CC” rule to this heading. 
  15.22:  one delegation proposed “CC”. 
 
Chapter 16
 
 (a) It was noted that the Note of Chapter 16 should read as follows:  "Change to this 
Chapter from Chapters 2 or 3 merely by addition of seasoning or preservatives (including sugar) are not considered origin conferring". 
 
(b) The representative of Morocco stated that all square brackets in Chapter Note should 
be dropped and that all square brackets in  primary rules of headings 16.04 and 16.05 
should be dropped. 
 
(c) 16.02:  one delegation proposed “CC, subject to Chapter Note”. 
  16.03:  one delegation proposed “CC”. G/RO/M/51 
Page 10  
 
   
 16.04:  one delegation did not consider th e preparation or preservation of fish to 
represent a substantial transformation.  In the case of caviar, origin should be conferred on the place of origin of the fish ro e.  He proposed “The origin shall be the 
country where the fish of this heading have been captured;  or if farmed, the country 
where the fish has been raised from egg or fry (including fingerling)”. 
  16.05:  one delegation did not consider the preparation or preservation of the items in 
this heading to represent a substantial tran sformation and proposed “The origin shall 
be the country where the animals of this heading have been captured or gathered”. 
 
Chapter 17
 
  17.01:  one delegation considered the refini ng of raw sugar to represent a substantial 
transformation and proposed a split heading rule be used to recognise the difference between 
cane/beet sugar and chemically processed sucrose (i.e. table sugar), and that a ‘chemical 
reaction’ test be included in the chapter notes si milar to the test applied to 15.16 and 15.18 as 
follows:  
 
17.01 Cane or beet sugar, etc. As specified for split headings 
ex17.01(a) Cane or beet sugar The origin shall be country where the cane or 
beet sugar of this heading is extracted in its 
natural or unprocessed state. 
ex17.01(b) Chemically pure sucrose, 
in solid form CTHS, or change by chemical reaction. 
 
 ex17.02(b):  one delegation proposed “CTH”.   17.03:  in order to confer origin from 17.01, one delegation proposed “CTH”.   
Chapter 19
 
  1902.20:  one delegation did not  consider the stuffing of pasta to represent a substantial 
transformation and proposed “CTH”. 
 
 19.03 and 19.04:  one delegation proposed “CC”. 
 
Chapter 20
 
  20.01 – 20.03, ex2008.11(a), 2008.20 – 2008.91, 2008.99 and 2009.40 – 2009.90: one 
delegation proposed “CC”. 
 
Chapter 22
 
 
(a) 22.03:  one delegation proposed “CC”. 
 
  2204.10 – 2204.29:  one delegation proposed “CTH, except from Chapter 8”. 
 (b) 22.09:  one delegation stated that they  were flexible on the EC’s proposal, “CTH, 
except from heading 22.04” on  the condition that harmonized rules of origin do not  G/RO/M/51 
 Page 11 
 
 
  prejudice members’ rights and obligations in respect of the application of domestic 
requirements for food labelling. 
 
Chapter 23  
  23.01 – 23.08:  one delegation proposed “CC”.   ex2309.90(a):   one delegation proposed removing the split from this subheading and applying 
“CTH” for heading 23.09. 
 
Chapter 25
 
  It was noted that the square brackets in "Residual rule for subheadings 2523.21-2523.90" 
should be dropped;  and it was suggested that th is rule should be inserted in the matrix.   
 
Criteria to apply Appendix 2, Rule 3(f)
 
 
(a) It was noted that criteria for Rule 3(f) in chemical products should be reconsidered. 
 
(b) One delegation stated that "value criteria" should be kept as indicated in 
G/RO/111/Rev.1.  
 
Chapter 28  
 
(a) One delegation proposed amending resi dual rule of Chapter 28 as follows:  "  Goods of 
this chapter produced by mixing or oth erwise combining materials of different 
origins, originate in the country that pr oduced the materials (disregarding solvents 
and other additives permitted by HS Chapter note (1) ) that predominate by weight or 
volume or value , as appropriate, over those of each other single country.”  
 
The same revision is also prevailing for Chapter 29 and 39 . 
 
(b) Another delegation stated that the value criteria should not be used for the reasons 
described in Appendix 2 – Rule 1 above. 
 
Chapter 30  
 
(a) It was noted that the square brackets of the primary rules of headings  30.03, 30.04 
and subheading 3006.30 should be dropped. 
 (b) One delegation proposed amending para graph 1 of Chapter 30 residual rule as 
follows: 
 
(i) "Goods of headings 30.03 and 30. 04 produced by mixing or otherwise 
combining materials of different orig ins, originate in the country that 
produced the therapeutic or prophylactic  materials (disregarding solvents and 
other non-active additives) that predominate by total value of materials and 
related processing activity, over those of each other single country." 
 (ii) He proposed the same residual rule for goods of 30.02. 
 G/RO/M/51 
Page 12  
 
  Heading 30.02
 
  One delegation stated that the primary rule  for heading 30.02 refers to biotechnological 
processes stipulated in paragraph 8 of the Chap ter Notes.  Why does only this heading have 
the reference?  It is natural that co-equal Ch apter Notes should equally apply to the whole 
chapter, even other than head ing 30.02, as primary rules. 
 
Chapter 32
 
  Chapter Note 2(b):  Mixtures and Blends:  one delegation did not support dilution as 
conferring origin. 
  Chapter 35
 
 
 3501.10, 3502.20, 3502.90 and 3505.1: one delegation proposed “CTSH”.   
  Chapter 39
 
 
Chapter Note 2(b):  one delegation did not unde rstand the reason for this chapter note.  More 
information on this provision would be useful  in helping us understand the chapter note and 
respond. 
 3926.20:  one delegation did not support assembly  in either a single or multiple countries as 
origin conferring and proposed “CTH”. 
 
 Heading 39.20
 
  It was suggested that the primary rule of head ing 39.20 should read “CTH, or change within 
this heading following the vacuum disposition of metal on the surface of plastics.” 
  Chapter 40
 
 
4001.21:  one delegation proposed “CTSH”. 
  Chapter 42
 
  Chapter Note 1 – Minor processi ng operations not affecting origin:  This chapter note should 
apply to all goods in Chapter 42.  One delegation proposed:  
  “For the purposes of determining the country of origin for goods in Chapter 42
 that are not 
wholly obtained in one country, the following individual processes, considered singly, are 
minimal operations and shall not affect the origin  of the goods concerned, whether or not such 
processes result in changes of classification: 
 
(a) Working or finishing one or more edges by hemming, rolling, whipping or similar 
means or by knotting fringe; 
(b) Cutting fabrics, yarns or other materials; or separating goods produced in the finished 
state by cutting along dividing threads; 
(c) Assembling or joining goods by sewing or  stitching for convenience of shipment or 
other temporary purposes; or 
(d) Putting up goods for retail sale or in sets or ensembles.”  G/RO/M/51 
 Page 13 
 
 
   
 42.02 and 42.03:  one delegation did not su pport assembly in either a single or multiple 
countries as origin conferring and proposed “CTH”.  
 
 Chapter 43 Chapter Note Minor pro cessing operations not affecting origin  
 
 One delegation noted that in Chapter Note 1,  the phrase "within Section XI" was replaced by 
"of headings 43.03."  This amendment seems to be intended to specify the relevant heading to 
the Note.  In this regard, the phrase "of headi ngs 43.03" should be replaced by "of headings 
43.03 or 43.04." because heading 43.04 al so stipulates the same rule as 43.03. 
 
 Chapter 43  
  Chapter Note 1 – Minor processing operations not  affecting origin:  this chapter note should 
apply to all goods in Chapter 43.  One delegation proposed: 
 
“For the purposes of determining the country of origin for goods in Chapter 43
 that are not 
wholly obtained in one country, the following individual processes, considered singly, are minimal operations and shall not affect the origin  of the goods concerned, whether or not such 
processes result in changes of classification: 
 
(a) Working or finishing one or more edges by hemming, rolling, whipping or similar 
means or by knotting fringe; 
(b) Cutting fabrics, yarns or other materials; or  separating goods produced in the finished 
state by cutting along dividing threads; 
(c) Assembling or joining goods by sewing or stitching for convenience of shipment or 
other temporary purposes; or 
(d) Putting up goods for retail sale or in sets or ensembles.” 
 
 43.02 and 43.04:  one delegation proposed removing the split from these headings and 
applying “CTH”. 
 
 Chapter 50
 
  50.04 and 50.05:  one delegation proposed removing the split from these headings and 
applying “CTH, except from heading 50.06;  or the origin shall be the country where yarn that 
is constructed but not further prepared or fi nished is dyed or printed and undergoes all 
subsequent finishing processes”. 
  50.06:  one delegation proposed removing the split from this heading and applying “CTH, 
except from heading 50.04 and 50.05;  or the origin shall be the country where yarn that is constructed but not further prepared or finished is dyed or printed and undergoes all subsequent finishing processes”. 
 
 50.07:  one delegation proposed removing the sp lit from this heading and applying “CTH;  or 
the origin shall be the country where yarn that  is constructed but not further prepared or 
finished is dyed or printed and underg oes all subsequent finishing processes”. 
 G/RO/M/51 
Page 14  
 
   exHeading 50.06(c)
 
  It was noted that the primary rule of split heading ex50.07(a) shoul d read "CTH, except from 
heading 50.04". 
 
 Chapter 51
 
  51.05:  one delegation did not consider the carding or combing of wool to be origin 
conferring. Propose “CC”.  
  51.06, 51.07 and 51.08:  one delegation proposed  removing the split from these headings and 
applying “CTH, except from heading 51.09;  or the origin shall be the country where yarn that 
is constructed but not further prepared or fi nished is dyed or printed and undergoes all 
subsequent finishing processes”. 
 
 51.09:  one delegation proposed removing the split from this heading and applying “CTH, 
except from headings 51.06 to 51.08;  or the orig in shall be the country where yarn that is 
constructed but not further prepared or finished is dyed or printed and undergoes all subsequent finishing processes”. 
 
 51.10, 51.11, 51.12 and 51.13:  one delegation proposed removing the split from these 
headings and applying “CTH;  or the origin shall be the country where yarn that is 
constructed but not further prepared or finished is dyed or printed and undergoes all subsequent finishing processes”. 
 
 Chapter 52
 
  52.04, 52.05, 52.08, 52.09, 52.10, 52.11 and 52.12:  one delegation proposed removing the 
split from these headings and applying “CTH;  or  the origin shall be the country where yarn 
that is constructed but not further prepared or  finished is dyed or printed and undergoes all 
subsequent finishing processes”. 
  ex52.06(a):  an explanation of core spinning would be useful.   52.07:  one delegation proposed removing the split from this heading and applying “CTH, 
except from headings 52.05 or 52.06;  or the origin shall be the country where yarn that is 
constructed but not further prepared or finished is dyed or printed and undergoes all subsequent finishing processes”. 
  Chapter 53
 
 
 53.06, 53.07, 53.08, 53.09, 53.10 and 53.11:  one delegation proposed removing the split from 
these headings and applying “CTH;  or the origin  shall be the country where yarn that is 
constructed but not further prepared or finished is dyed or printed and undergoes all subsequent finishing processes”. 
 
 Chapter 54
 
  54.01, 54.07 and 54.08:  one delegation proposed  removing the split from these headings and 
applying “CTH;  or the origin shall be the c ountry where yarn that is constructed but not 
further prepared or finished is dyed or pr inted and undergoes all subsequent finishing 
processes”. 
  G/RO/M/51 
 Page 15 
 
 
   54.02, 54.03, 54.04 and 54.05:  one delegation proposed removing the split from these 
headings and applying “CTH, except from heading 52.06;  or the origin shall be the country 
where yarn that is constructed but not further prepared or finished is dyed or printed and undergoes all subsequent finishing processes”. 
 
 54.06:  one delegation proposed removing the split from this heading and applying “CTH, 
except from heading 52.02 through 52.05;  or the origin shall be the country where yarn that is constructed but not further prepared or fi nished is dyed or printed and undergoes all 
subsequent finishing processes”.  
 
 Chapter 55
 
 
(a) One delegation indicated that the primary ru le of split heading ex 55.08(b) should read 
“CTH;  or change by permanent dying or permanent printing from unbleached or 
prebleached yarn with at least two preparatory or finishing operations. 
 
(b) It was noted that the primary rule of split heading ex55.08(c) should read "CTH, 
except from heading 55.01 to 55.11". 
  (c) 55.01 and 55.02:  one delegation proposed “CTH”. 
 
  55.03, 55.04, 55.06 and 55.07:  one delegation proposed “CC”. 
 
55.08, 55.12, 55.13, 55.14, 55.15 and 55.16:  one delegation proposed removing the split from these headings and applying “CTH;  or the origin shall be the country where yarn that is constructed but not further prepared or finished is dyed or printed 
and undergoes all subsequent finishing processes”. 
 55.09 and 55.10:   one delegation proposed removing the split from these headings and 
applying “CTH, except from heading 55.11;  or the origin shall be the country where yarn that is constructed but not further prep ared or finished is dyed or printed and 
undergoes all subsequent finishing processes”.  
55.11:  one delegation proposed removing the split from this heading and applying 
“CTH, except from headings 55.09 or 55.10;  or the origin shall be the country where yarn that is constructed but not further prep ared or finished is dyed or printed and 
undergoes all subsequent finishing processes”. 
 
 Chapter 56
 
  56.02 and 56.03:  one delegation proposed removing the split from these headings and 
applying “CTH;  or the origin shall be the c ountry where yarn that is constructed but not 
further prepared or finished is dyed or pr inted and undergoes all subsequent finishing 
processes”. 
 
 Chapter 57
 
  57.02 and 57.03:  one delegation proposed removing the split from these headings and 
applying “CTH”.  
 G/RO/M/51 
Page 16  
 
   Chapter 58
 
  58.01 – 58.04, 58.06 and 58.09:  one delegation proposed removing the split from these 
headings and applying “CTH;  or the origin shall be the country where yarn that is 
constructed but not further prepared or finished is dyed or printed and undergoes all 
subsequent finishing processes”. 
 
 58.07, 58.08, 58.10 and 58.11:  one delegation proposed removing the split from these 
headings and applying “CTH”. 
 
 Chapter 59
 
  59.03, 59.05, 59.07 and 59.11:  one delegation proposed removing the split from these 
headings and applying “CTH”. 
 
 Chapter 60
 
  60.01 and 60.02:  one delegation proposed removing the split from these headings and 
applying “CTH;  or the origin shall be the c ountry where yarn that is constructed but not 
further prepared or finished is dyed or pr inted and undergoes all subsequent finishing 
processes”. 
 
 Chapters 61 & 62
 
 
(a) Chapter Note 2 – Assembly in a single country – Chapter Residual Rule:  one 
delegation did not support assembly only as origin conferring.   
   One delegation proposed removing all splits in this chapter and applying a “CC” rule 
at the chapter level.  
 
(b) It was noted that the primary rules fo r Chapters 61 and 62 indicate precisely specific 
processes required to confer origin inst ead of using CC, CTH and so on.  Other 
chapters’ primary rules stipulate rules, using abbreviations in accordance with the 
terminology guide.  For example, primary rules for ex Chapter 62(a) and 
ex Chapter 62(e) could be described as” [CC or change from ex Chapter 62(f) 
provided that the goods are assembled in a single country in accordance with Chapter 
Note.]”. 
  ex Chapter 61(h) (ex6117.90)
 
 
 One delegation stated that we understand that goods classified in ex Chapter 61 (h) include 
“parts cut to shape” which are parts of subheadi ng 6117.90.  In this regard, the description of 
that split chapter should include “parts  cut to shape” for clarification. 
  ex Chapter 62(f) (ex6217.90)
 
 
 It was noted that in split Chapter 62(f), an  abbreviation “ex” ahead of 6217.90 should be 
dropped. 
  G/RO/M/51 
 Page 17 
 
 
   Chapter 63  
  63.01 and 63.02:  one delegation proposed removing the split from these headings and 
applying “CTH, provided that where the starting ma terial is fabric, the fabric is constructed 
but not further prepared or finished”.  
 
 63.03, 63.04 and 63.05:  one delegation propo sed “CTH, provided that where the starting 
material is fabric, the fabric is construc ted but not further prepared or finished”.  
 
 63.07:  one delegation proposed removing the split from this heading and applying “CTH, 
except by cutting only”. 
  63.08:  one delegation proposed “CTH”.   Heading 63.08
 
 
 Primary rule of heading 63.08 is “CTH, excep t when resulting only from putting up in sets”.  
This rule provides that putting up goods in sets does not confer origin, in itself. In that case, 
“putting up in sets” is not considered as a subs tantial transformation.  Therefore, we need 
clarification on which process could be considered  conferring origin.  In the same regard, we 
also need clarification on whether it is necessar y for each final product which consists of a set 
to be originating from the country where the set is produced. 
 
 Chapter 64  
 
 64.01 – 64.05:  one delegation proposed “CTH”.   64.06:  one delegation proposed removing th e split from this heading and applying “CTH”.  
 
 Chapter 70
 
  70.10 and 70.13:  one delegation proposed removing the split from these headings and 
applying “CTH”. 
 
 7019.52 and 7019.59:  one delegation proposed “CTSH”. 
 
 Chapter 72
 
 (a) One delegation indicated that the prim ary rules of split heading ex72.12(b) should 
keep the same with ex72.12(a) and should read “[CTHS, except from heading 
72.10].”  And it was noted that the indication correctly reflected the current status. 
 (b) As concerns heading 72.23, one delegati on proposed changing to "CTH".  Wire of 
stainless steel under heading 72.23 is mainly  produced from stainless steel bars and 
rods.  The physical characters, final pu rpose and price of the products under this 
heading are quite different from steel bars a nd rods.  They proposed to change the rule 
as “CTH ” for this heading. 
 (c)  ex72.10(b) and ex72.10(d):  one delegation proposed “CTH”. 
 
 ex72.16(a):  one delegation proposed “C TH, except from headings 72.09, 72.10, 
ex72.11(b) and 72.12 to 72.15”. 
 G/RO/M/51 
Page 18  
 
   ex72.19(d):  one delegation proposed “CTH, except from heading 72.20”. 
  ex72.20(d):  one delegation proposed “CTH, except from heading 72.19”.   ex72.22(f):  one delegation proposed the sa me rule as ex72.22(e) “CTH, except from 
heading 72.21”. 
  ex72.25(d):  one delegation proposed “CTH, except from heading 72.26”.   ex72.28(e):  one delegation proposed “CTH, except from heading 72.27”.  
 
 Chapter 74
 
  74.08:  one delegation proposed a simpler rule - “CTH, except from 7407”.  
 Headings & Subheadings 74.08, 7505.21, 7505.22, 76.05, 76.08, ex78.03(b), ex79.04(b), 
ex80.03(b)  
  One delegation stated that primary rules for 74.08 are “[CTH provided that the cross-sectional 
area of the rod is reduced by at least 25%.]”.  This rule is applied to the case where copper 
wire is produced only from rod.  However, it is  not clear how to treat cases where copper wire 
is produced from other intermediate materials than  rod.  There are also some other headings 
(including their subheadings and split headings ) which need the same modification.  For 
example, primary rule of subheading 7607.11 stipulates [CTSH, except from 76.06 or a 
change to foil of heading 76.07 from heading 76.06, if there has been a reduction in the 
thickness of the source product by at least 25 %].  The former part of the rule covers the case 
using materials other than heading 76.06, and the la tter part of the rule covers the case that 
intermediate materials are classified to headi ng 76.06.  This rule is one of good examples on 
how to cover possible all materials to produce goods. 
  Chapter 75
 
 
 7505.21 and 7505.22:  one delegation proposed simpler rules - “CTH”.   Chapter 76
 
 
 (a) 76.08:  it was noted that the primary rule of heading 76.08 should read "CTH". 
  (b) 7605:  one delegation proposed a si mpler rule - “CTH, except from 76.04”. 
 
  76.07:  one delegation proposed removing the split from this heading and applying a 
simpler rule - “CTH”. 
 
  7616.91:  one delegation proposed “CTSH”.   Subheading 7607.11
 
 
 It was noted that primary values for 7607.11 should be “CTSH, except from 76.06, [comma 
added] or a change to foil of heading 76.07 fro m heading 76.06 [comma deleted] if there has 
been a reduction in the thickness of the source product by at least 25%.”  
  G/RO/M/51 
 Page 19 
 
 
   Chapter 78  
  78.03:  one delegation proposed removing the sp lit from this heading and applying a simpler 
rule - “CTH”. 
 
 Chapter 79
 
  79.04 and 79.07:  one delegation proposed removing the split from these headings and 
applying simpler rules - “CTH”. 
 
 Chapter 80
 
  80.03:   one delegation proposed removing the split fr om this heading and applying a simpler 
rule - “CTH”. 
 
 exHeading 81.01(e)
 
  It was noted that the brackets of split heading ex81.01(e) should be dropped. 
 
 exHeading 8112.11(a)
 
 
 It was noted that as a matter of editorial im provement, a triple-hyphen is needed in front of 
the description of goods of split heading ex8112.11(a). 
 
 Chapter 82 Chapter Note 1(a)  
  One delegation stated that in G/RO/W/111/Re v.2/Corr.1, the phrase “of this chapter” was 
deleted.  This phrase should be re-inserted to  make clear the intention of the sentence. 
  Chapter notes of Chapters 82 and 83
 
 
 One delegation stated that they were still in a position that “weight” should be used as a single 
unit. 
 
 Heading 82.06  
 
 It was noted that primary rule for heading 82. 06 should read "CC, except when resulting only 
from putting up in sets". 
 
 Chapter 83 Chapter Note  
 
 It was noted that the title should be “Goods or  Parts Produced from Blanks”. 
  Chapters 84-90
 
 
(a) With regard to the issue of Chapters 84-90, China had submitted a couple of proposals 
for product specific rules and hoped their proposals could be incorporated to the issues to be discussed for the next meeting.   Even though the sector of machinery as a 
whole is waiting for the guidance from GC, they still thought that it would be appropriate for the WTO members to express their preferable opinions and choice 
among the criteria in column 3 and column 4. 
 (b) One delegation proposed one set of ROO and supports the CTC rules in column 3. G/RO/M/51 
Page 20  
 
   
 ex84.73(b):  one delegation proposed “C TH” and removing the subsidiary rule. 
   84.83:  one delegation proposed removing the subsidiary rule.   
 85.41 and 85.42:  one delegation supported the original wording in column 3 rule 
from G/RO/W111 - “The country of origin of a good of this heading shall be the country of diffusion”. 
  Chapter 94
 
 
(a) It was noted that the primary rules of subheadings 9401.90 and 9403.90 as well as 
split heading ex94.02(b) should read "CTH". 
 
(b) As concerns subheadings 9405.10-60, on e delegation confirmed its position (CTSH). 
  Chapter 95
 
 
 9502.91:  one delegation did not  support assembly in either single or multiple countries as 
origin conferring.  Proposed “CTH”. 
 
9502.99:  one delegation proposed “CTH”. 
 
 Chapter 97  
  9701.90:  one delegation proposed “CTSH”. 
  
 97.02 and 97.03:  one delegation proposed  a “CTH” rule without a residual rule. 
 
 97.04 and 97.05:  one delegation proposed removing the split from these headings and 
applying “CTH”.  
  97.06:  one delegation proposed “CTH”.  
2.2 The representative of New Zealand
 thanked the Chairperson for her report and for her 
transparency and clarity.  He suggested that all elem ents that are not agreed be in square brackets in 
the draft consolidated text.  The cover note of the draft consolidated text referred to a number of 
issues that had not been agreed, such as General Rules and Appendix 1, Rules of Appendix 2 and 
Product Specific Rules of machinery (chapters 84-90), but they were not square bracketed.  He also 
stated that he was able to attend some of the info rmal consultations in the last two days which were 
good.  But due to the lack of clarity concerning the scope of application, he could not get any feed 
back from the capital, and therefore he could not  assist the consultations.  Specifically in the 
discussion on the architecture, the following questio n was raised:  how burdensome it would be to 
apply a particular rule that was under discussion.  But it became clear that the delegations could not 
actually answer that question because it was not clear  for what purposes the rule would be applied;  
whether it would be applied for the customs purposes,  trade-remedies, or who would apply the rule.  
During the informal consultations, so me delegations suggested that they could agree to a particular 
rule only if it would not apply for a particular  purpose, such as the application of domestic 
requirements for food labelling.  That suggestions made him feel uneasy because it implied that  individual delegations might  be able to carve out certain policy instruments, in spite of the clear 
provision of Article 1 of the Agreement on Rules of Origin.  It also undermined the other essential 
elements of the mandate which was that the harmonized  rules of origin was to be trade facilitating.  
For that reason, he looked forward to the out come of the General Council consultations on the  G/RO/M/51 
 Page 21 
 
 
  implications issue.  He further stated that New Zealand, as a small delegation had difficulty in 
covering the informal consultations which had been scheduled three of four times a year.  For that 
reason, they particularly welcomed that General Council's decisions in July 2007 that discussions on 
the technical issues should take place on a regular business of the CRO.  
2.3 The representative of Cuba
 supported the statement made by New Zealand and stated that it 
was difficult for Cuba to follow what was going on in the informal consultations in great detail.  Her 
capital needed more time to study the documents and papers circulated.  2.4 The representative of the Philippines
 stated that the implications issue was an overarching 
concern.  She raised the awareness of all delega tions that important progr ess would be made only if 
the implications issue were addr essed.  She emphasized that political  will was needed in order to 
finish this work.  2.5 The CRO took note
 of the statements made. 
 
III. TRANSITIONAL REVIEW UNDER PARAGRAPH 18 OF THE PROTOCOL OF 
ACCESSION OF THE PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF CHINA (WT/L/432;  WT/ACC/CHN/49, PARAS. 97-102) 
3.1 The Chairperson
 noted that in accordance with paragra ph 18 of the Protocol of Accession of 
the People's Republic of China, the CRO was to report to the Council for Trade in Goods on the 
outcome of the Review which would then report to the General Council.   
 3.2 The CRO took note
 of the statement made and agreed  that the Secretariat prepare a short 
factual report under the Chairman's responsibility to  be sent to the Council for Trade in Goods. 
 
IV. THAILAND – IMPLEMENTATION BY ARGENTINA OF ITS COMMITMENT TO 
THE AGREEMENT ON RULES OF ORIGIN  
4.1 The Chairperson  recalled that at the last meeting of  the CRO, Thailand raised a question on 
Argentina's implementation on the Agreement on Rules of Origin.  It was agreed to revert to this issue 
at this meeting.  
4.2 The representative of Argentina
 stated that in accordance with the provisions set forth by the 
Article 5 and the paragraph 4 of the annex II of the Rules of Origin Agreement, the Republic of 
Argentina timely notified its non-preferential rules of origin, as circulated in document G/RO/N/2 
dated 22 June 1995.  This document indicated that th e cited rules of origin are contained within the 
Article 14 of the Customs Code – Law 22.415/82.  Wh en in the cited rule a "change of the tariff 
heading in the applicable Nomenclature" is mentioned,  it is referred to a change of tariff heading as it 
is defined in the Harmonized Commodity Descripti on and Coding System (HS), in other words the 
first four (4) digits of the customs classification.  4.3 The CRO took note
 of the statements made. 
 V. NOTIFICATIONS UNDER ARTICLE 5 AND PARAGRAPH 4 OF ANNEX II OF THE 
AGREEMENT ON RULES OF ORIGIN (G/RO/N/56-59) 
5.1 The Chairperson
 recalled that since the last review on notifications by the CRO the 
Secretariat had circulated four documents inform ing delegations of notifi cations submitted by Hong 
Kong, China;  Lesotho and Ukraine (G/RO/N/56-59).  To date, 79 Members had made notifications of 
non-preferential rules of origin and 86 Members had ma de notifications of preferential rules of origin. 
 G/RO/M/51 
Page 22  
 
  5.2 The Chairperson
 expressed concern that a number of Members had not yet complied with the 
notification.  5.3 The CRO took note
 of the statement. 
 VI. ANNUAL REVIEW OF THE IMPLEMENTATION AND OPERATION OF THE 
AGREEMENT ON RULES OF  ORIGIN (G/RO/W/122) 
6.1 The Chairperson
 noted that the Secretariat had circulated, in document G/RO/W/122, the 
draft Review of the Implementation and Operation of the Agreement, and that this would be revised in 
light of the discussion at this meeting of the CRO. 
 
6.2 The Committee adopted  the Annual Review of the Impl ementation and Operation of the 
Agreement on Rules of Origin.  
VII. ANNUAL REPORT (2008) TO THE COUNCIL FOR TRADE IN GOODS 
(G/RO/W/123) 
7.1 The Chairperson
 noted that the Secretariat had circulated a draft of the CRO's report to the 
Council for Trade in Goods, as required by Article 6.1 of the Agreement (G/RO/W/123), and that this 
would be revised in light of the discussion at this meeting of the CRO.   7.2 The CRO adopted
 its annual report to the CTG (G/L/870). 
 
VIII.  DATES OF THE NEXT MEETING 
8.1 The Chairperson  suggested the following dates for the next meeting of the CRO: 
  - 17 and 18 March 2009 for informal meetings; 
 - 19 March 2009 for the formal meeting. 
 
 
__________